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Forte de São João Batista do Brum: A Sentinel of Recife's History

Explore a 17th-century fort in Recife, Brazil, with a rich history of Dutch and Portuguese conflict, now a military museum showcasing Brazil's past.

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Forte de São João Batista do Brum, also known as Forte do Brum, stands as a historic fort in Recife, Brazil, guarding the entrance to the city's harbor. Constructed initially in the 17th century, it has witnessed Dutch invasions, Portuguese reconquests, and served as a military museum, showcasing Brazil's military history through weapons, photos, and documents.

A brief summary to Forte de São João Batista do Brum

  • Praça da Comunidade Luso Brasileira, Recife, Recife, State of Pernambuco, BR
  • Visit website
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 2 pm-5 pm
  • Sunday 2 pm-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and have a more intimate experience with the museum's exhibits.
  • Check out the views of the harbor from the fort's walls; it's a great spot for photos.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing some walking around the fort's grounds and through the museum.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Marco Zero in Recife Antigo, walk north along the waterfront promenade. Continue past the Recife Cultural Center. The Forte de São João Batista do Brum will be visible on your left, approximately a 15-minute walk. There are no costs involved in walking to the fort.

  • Public Transport

    From Recife city center, take bus line 032 or 033 towards Recife Antigo. Get off near the customs building (Alfandega). Walk north towards the waterfront; the fort will be on your left. The bus fare is approximately R$4.10 - R$4.30.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Boa Viagem, a taxi or ride-sharing service to Forte de São João Batista do Brum will cost approximately R$40 - R$65 and take around 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. There are no additional tolls or mandatory access fees.

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Discover more about Forte de São João Batista do Brum

The Forte de São João Batista do Brum is a historical fortification located in Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil. Situated in the Recife neighborhood, it was erected to protect the harbor and the settlement of Recife. Its strategic position at the entrance of the port made it a key structure in the defense of the area. Originally built in the 16th century by the Portuguese, the fort was meant to secure the area from invasions. However, it was soon contested during the Dutch occupation of Brazil in the 17th century. The Dutch expanded the fort and renamed it Forte de Bruyne, in honor of Johan de Bruyne, who presided over the political council of Olinda. After the Portuguese regained control in 1654, they renamed it Forte de São João Batista do Brum. Over the centuries, the fort has been renovated and repurposed. Today, it functions as a military museum, displaying a collection of weaponry, ammunition, and military uniforms dating back to the Dutch invasion. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing medieval armor, 16th-century daggers, and relics related to Brazil's participation in World War II. The site provides insights into the military history of Recife and Brazil, highlighting the fort's role in defending the region. The fort is open to the public on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9 AM to 5 PM, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 2 PM to 5 PM. It remains closed on Mondays. A visit offers a glimpse into the architectural and military history of the region.

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